When it comes to appetizers, few things can match the allure of air - fryer egg rolls. These little bites of goodness are a perfect blend of a flaky exterior and a savory interior, making them an ideal choice to kick off any meal. Whether you're hosting a party, having a family dinner, or just craving a delicious snack, air - fryer egg rolls are here to satisfy your taste buds.

The beauty of air - fryer egg rolls lies in their simplicity and versatility. Unlike traditional deep - fried egg rolls that can be heavy and greasy, air - fryer egg rolls are a healthier alternative. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook the egg rolls, resulting in a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. This means you can enjoy the same great taste with less guilt.

Let's start with the base recipe. First, gather your ingredients. You'll need egg roll wrappers, which are readily available at most grocery stores. For the filling, the possibilities are endless. Our Test Kitchen has come up with a variety of sweet and savory filling ideas to suit different palates.

For a classic savory filling, you can start with shredded cabbage. Cabbage adds a nice crunch and freshness to the egg rolls. Combine it with finely chopped carrots, which not only add color but also a touch of natural sweetness. Add some minced garlic and ginger for a burst of flavor. These aromatic ingredients are the heart and soul of many Asian - inspired dishes.

Next, you can include some protein. Ground pork is a popular choice. Cook the ground pork in a pan until it's browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and add it to the cabbage and carrot mixture. Season the filling with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a little bit of sesame oil. The soy sauce adds saltiness and umami, while the oyster sauce gives it a rich, savory flavor. The sesame oil provides a nutty aroma that ties all the flavors together.

Once your filling is ready, it's time to assemble the egg rolls. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape. Place a spoonful of the filling near the bottom corner of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the two sides and roll it up tightly. Use a little bit of water on the edge of the wrapper to seal it. Make sure the seal is tight so that the filling doesn't spill out during cooking.

Now, it's time to air - fry the egg rolls. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the egg rolls with some oil to help them get crispy. Place the egg rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they're not overcrowded. Cook them for about 8 - 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The egg rolls should turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.

If you're in the mood for something sweet, our Test Kitchen has some amazing ideas for you too. You can make a sweet filling with cream cheese, mashed bananas, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The cream cheese adds a creamy texture, the bananas bring natural sweetness, and the cinnamon gives it a warm, comforting flavor. Roll these sweet egg rolls just like the savory ones and air - fry them. They make a great dessert - like appetizer.

Another sweet option is to use Nutella and sliced strawberries. Spread a thin layer of Nutella on the egg roll wrapper, top it with sliced strawberries, and roll it up. Air - fry these sweet treats, and you'll have a decadent and delicious appetizer that will be a hit with everyone.

To serve your air - fryer egg rolls, you can pair them with a variety of dipping sauces. For the savory egg rolls, a simple soy - ginger dipping sauce is perfect. Just mix some soy sauce, grated ginger, and a little bit of rice vinegar. You can also make a spicy mayo by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha sauce for a creamy and spicy kick. For the sweet egg rolls, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce will take them to the next level.

In conclusion, air - fryer egg rolls are a wonderful addition to any menu. With their easy - to - make base recipe and endless filling options, you can create a unique and delicious appetizer every time. So, fire up your air fryer and start rolling these crispy, flavorful egg rolls today!